which Windows and Programs folder files do not need to be backed up?

I use Retrospect Professional to back up all my systems. I like that Retrospect retains old versions of files, not just the current version. (http://www.retrospect.com). Highly recommended, btw.

Here is my question. Rght now I have Retrospect set to back up all files on my C drive (on all systems), except for obvious temp files, hibernation and swap files, etc. The C drive contains just Windows and installed programs. I keep all user data, photos, music, etc., on other drives. Some nights I find Retrospect wanting to back up 3-5 or more GB. I know some of that is daily updates for things like AV signature updates.

Are there folders that are used just for these kinds of daily updates? is it important that I back up the ProgramData folders? Any other folders that I can safely ignore?

x509

Are there folders that are used just for these kinds of daily updates? is it important that I back up the ProgramData folders? Any other folders that I can safely ignore?

Some third party software tend to store their extra info/data/updates/license in C:\ProgramData folder and in folders Local/Roaming/LocalLow under
C::\Users\[USERNAME]\AppData.
Depending what kind of software applications you installed. Besides temporary files being created. Cache files, Thumbnails, cookies, Windows Updates etc... are also created so I would suggest to back up everything. However, before creating back up you should use some cleanup software to delete those unnecessary files.

Software such as Video/Audio editing also create huge amount of caches, you just have to look at the Settings associated with the software to find out where they store those cache files.

topgundcp said:

Some third party software tend to store their extra info/data/updates/license in C:\ProgramData folder and in folders Local/Roaming/LocalLow under
C::\Users\[USERNAME]\AppData.
Depending what kind of software applications you installed. Besides temporary files being created. Cache files, Thumbnails, cookies, Windows Updates etc... are also created so I would suggest to back up everything. However, before creating back up you should use some cleanup software to delete those unnecessary files.

Software such as Video/Audio editing also create huge amount of caches, you just have to look at the Settings associated with the software to find out where they store those cache files.

I already exclude temp and Windows\temp folders. I also exclude certain file types like ~*.* and *.bak.

I would prefer not to back up caches, thumbnails and anything else that is transient.

x509